The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is scheduled to meet today to sight the crescent moon of Muharram-ul-Haram 1448 AH and determine the beginning of the new Islamic year in Pakistan. The meeting will play a key role in deciding the official start of Muharram and the date of Ashura.
Meeting to Be Held at Badshahi Mosque
According to the official announcement, the meeting will be chaired by the chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad. The session will take place at Iqbal Hall, located within Lahore’s Badshahi Mosque.
Moon Sighting Reports to Be Reviewed
Committee members will review moon-sighting testimonies received from different parts of the country. After examining all reports and consulting relevant authorities, the committee will announce whether the Muharram moon has been sighted.
PMD Predicts Low Chances of Moon Visibility
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has indicated that the chances of sighting the Muharram crescent today are very low. According to its advisory, the interval between the moon’s birth and sunset is not sufficient for clear visibility across Pakistan.
New Islamic Year Depends on Moon Sighting
Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and is one of the four sacred months in Islam. The official announcement by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will determine the first day of Muharram and set the timeline for the observance of Ashura.
Astronomical Forecasts Suggest Muharram May Begin on June 17
Several astronomical assessments suggest that the crescent may not be visible on June 15. If the moon is not sighted, the first day of Muharram is expected to fall on June 17, though the final decision rests with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s religious authorities will meet today to determine the start of Muharram-ul-Haram 1448 AH. While meteorological forecasts indicate minimal chances of moon sighting, the final announcement will be made after reviewing reports from across the country.
